Breaking: Lewis Hamilton breaks silence first time since losing F1 title and snubbing Instagram

LEWIS HAMILTON has finally broken his social media silence after unfollowing EVERYONE on Instagram last year.

The British Formula One star, 37, has gone missing on social media since losing his world title to Max Verstappen at the controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Rumours have been swirling ever since the December farce that Hamilton could QUIT F1.

But ahead of the 2022 season, Hamilton joined new Mercedes team-mate George Russell in wishing his Weibo followers a Happy Chinese New Year.

The Brit legend is yet to post on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook since early December and was only seen publicly for the first time over the weekend as he grabbed a coffee in California.

In a short, five-second clip, Hamilton said: “I wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.

“May the New Year bring you good luck and everything you wish for.”

Russell added: “Hi guys. I’d like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.

“I’m excited to join the AMG family and become part of the world’s fastest family.

“See you soon and stay safe.”

Hamilton was on the brink of securing an outright record EIGHTH F1 world title in December, only for a bizarre decision from race director Michael Masi to allow Verstappen to leapfrog him and snatch the 2021 crown.

The BBC claim the Brit ace is still mulling over his options pending an FIA enquiry into the botched Abu Dhabi GP despite having two years left to run on his current contract.

New FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed he has spoken to Hamilton since the contentious race.

Ben Sulayem claimed: “I don’t think he’s 100 per cent ready to respond right now.

“We don’t blame him. I understand his position.”

Hamilton is due to report back to Mercedes duty on February 23 for pre-season testing.

The opening race of the 2022 season will take place in Bahrain on March 20.

Meanwhile, Mercedes have been forced to deny their 2022 car failed its crash tests.

Credit:SunUK,Getty Images